FCC Updates Privacy Rules for Lifeline Phone and Internet Aid
Published Date: 3/12/2025
Notice
Summary
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with Nevada to double-check who qualifies for the Lifeline program, which helps people get affordable phone and internet service. This update means better accuracy in who gets benefits, making sure the right folks get help without wasting money. The program is back in action now, keeping things fair and smooth for everyone involved.
Analyzed Economic Effects
1 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 0 costs, 0 mixed.
Nevada Lifeline eligibility checks
The FCC and the Universal Service Administrative Company (USAC) will run a computer matching program with the Nevada Department of Health and Human Services to verify whether applicants and subscribers qualify for the Universal Service Fund Lifeline program. If you apply for or already receive Lifeline in Nevada, your eligibility information may be checked to confirm you should receive the benefit.
Your PRIA Score
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Sign up for a PRIA Policy Scan to see your personalized alignment score for this federal register document and every other regulation we track. We analyze your financial profile against policy provisions to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Department and Agencies
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-11653 — Information Collection Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and other agencies to comment on a paperwork update that aims to make things easier, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. They want to reduce the hassle of filling out forms and need approval from the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) to keep collecting this info. Comments are due by July 13, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to weigh in!
2026-11452 — Information Collections Being Submitted for Review and Approval to Office of Management and Budget
The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) is asking the public and small businesses to share their thoughts on how to make government paperwork easier and less time-consuming. They want feedback by July 8, 2026, to help reduce the burden, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. This is part of a plan to keep things simple and efficient without costing extra money or time.
2026-11450 — Information Collection Being Reviewed by the Federal Communications Commission
The FCC is asking the public and agencies to share their thoughts on how it collects information to make sure it’s useful and not too much work. They want to cut down on paperwork, especially for small businesses with fewer than 25 employees. If you want to comment, you’ve got until August 7, 2026, so don’t miss your chance to help shape smarter rules!
2026-11353 — Reforming the High-Cost Program for an All-IP Future, Connect America Fund: A National Broadband Plan for Our Future High-Cost Universal Support
The FCC is updating its High-Cost Program to better support broadband in rural and hard-to-reach areas, making sure networks are ready for the future with faster, smarter internet. This change helps boost American tech leadership and supports the shift to modern internet systems, with feedback due by early September 2026. It’s about making sure everyone stays connected as technology zooms ahead!
2026-10840 — Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with Kentucky’s health department to double-check who really qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which help low-income folks get discounted internet and phone service. This new computer matching program starts July 1, 2026, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep these benefits fair and on track. If you want to speak up, send your comments by July 1, 2026!
2026-10839 — Privacy Act of 1974; Matching Program
The FCC and USAC are teaming up with New Mexico’s Health Care Authority to double-check who qualifies for Lifeline and the Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP), which help low-income folks get discounted internet and phone services. This new matching program starts July 1, 2026, runs for 18 months, and aims to keep these benefits fair and accurate. If you’re involved, now’s the time to send your comments by July 1, 2026!
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-03922 — Permanent Advisory Committee To Advise the U.S. Commissioners to the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission; Meeting Announcement
The U.S. is holding a public meeting on May 28, 2025, with the Permanent Advisory Committee to help guide decisions about managing big ocean fish in the Western and Central Pacific. This affects fishermen, environmental groups, and anyone interested in ocean health. No money changes are announced, but the meeting sets the stage for future fishery rules and protections.
Next: 2025-03924 — Notice of Intent To Prepare an Environmental Assessment; City of Idaho Falls, Idaho
The City of Idaho Falls plans to temporarily stop water flow in part of the Snake River from July to early December 2025 to fix gates at their hydroelectric dam. This affects local river areas and could impact the environment, so the government will study the effects and ask for public feedback by March 31. The full environmental report is expected by June 27, 2025.